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A Balanced Cup

All three shelves
in a white cabinet
with a glass front
and a splashing painting above it
(shades of brown splattering
a green striped cup)
are dedicated to
mugs

I choose one with care
matching it to my mood
to the day
to the tea I'll brew in it

The tea itself
another quest
of local sources
new flavors
and old favorites

Usually black
and strong
and spiced
with sugar or honey
and milk
full of heat 
and energy

Sometimes I need
the emotional warmth
rather than the physical
so I hold it
and enjoy its scent
until it goes cold
in my hands

Sometimes I talk
through tea instead of words
or take a sip
instead of saying something

It's good to stop
and think
and listen
but there is also
a time
to speak.
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